THE village of Ditchling, tucked away in rural Sussex, has been home to more famous faces than you might think.

From film stars to TV personalities, many have inhabited the small enclave which has not changed much over the years.

The passing of renowned actor Sir Donald Sinden on September 12 brought Ditchling back into the headlines.

Born in 1923 to Alfred Edward Sinden and his wife Mabel Agnes (née Fuller), he grew up in Ditchling with older sister Joy and younger brother Leon, where their home, The Limes, doubled as the local chemist shop. The Limes is currently a Grade II-listed building in the high street.

Sir Donald made his first stage appearance at the amateur Brighton Little Theatre, of which he later became president in 1941, and went on to feature in The Cruel Sea. Not content with one film star, Ditchling was also a favourite spot for Sir Dirk Bogarde.

The star of many post-Second World War films, he could count “Forces’ Sweetheart” Dame Vera Lynn as one of his neighbours in Ditchling.

Dame Vera has lived in Ditchling for many years following her time as a singer serenading troops during the conflict.

She also campaigned to build a memorial in London to women who served in the war.

Her life in Sussex has seen her become a regular at many functions, from opening a vintage tea room in Hassocks to appearing at Ditchling Museum for the visit of the Dutchess of Cornwall in 2006.

In September 2007, stars flocked to the village to celebrate the wedding of Ditchling-born celebrity resident Jamie Theakston to Sophie Siegal.

Guests included TV and radio presenter Chris Evans, former England striker and Arsenal legend Ian Wright, comedian and actor Alexander Armstrong, former Blue Peter presenter Richard Bacon and Little Britain’s David Walliams.

Evans snubbed the traditional suit by turning up in a Hawaiian shirt.

The service was held in the 12th century St Margaret’s Church in West Street, only yards from where Theakston lived at the time.

While the service might have been a fleeting visit for some celebrities, British cycling legend Sir Bradley Wiggins was merely passing nearby during his race to the top of Ditchling Beacon as part of the Tour Of Britain last month.